How to Properly Store Freesia Bulbs for Optimal Health

Freesia bulbs produce beautiful, fragrant blooms in a range of colors like yellow, pink, orange, purple, red and white With proper storage techniques, these tender bulbs can be preserved from season to season for continual enjoyment in the garden Follow these tips for successfully storing freesia bulbs.

Why Store Freesia Bulbs?

Storing freesia bulbs over the winter a process called overwintering, offers several benefits

• Preserves bulbs from year to year so you can replant favorite varieties annually

• Saves money by not having to purchase new bulbs every year.

• Allows you to strategically time freesia planting in spring for ideal growing conditions.

• Maintains control over precisely where bulbs are planted in the garden.

• Protects bulbs from freezing winter temperatures that can damage them.

Overwintering keeps bulbs dormant until the next suitable growing season arrives.

When to Harvest and Store Freesia Bulbs

Freesia bulbs should be dug up and stored once they have completed their growing and blooming cycle, which takes around 10-12 weeks.

The ideal harvesting timeframe is:

• After all blooms have faded in late summer or early fall.

• Foliage has turned completely yellow and died back naturally.

• Before first frost or freezing temperatures arrive in your region.

Time harvest between September and November depending on your local climate.

Step-by-Step Guide to Storing Freesia Bulbs

Follow these steps for properly cleaning, drying, and storing freesia bulbs:

Digging Up Bulbs

• Carefully dig up bulbs using a pitchfork or spade, avoiding damage to bulbs.

• Gently separate individual bulbs by hand at the base as you lift them.

• Discard any bulbs that are soft, moldy or show signs of rotting.

Cleaning Bulbs

• Use scissors or pruners to trim off remaining stems near the bulb base.

• Gently remove any excess soil clinging to bulbs by brushing or rinsing.

• Allow bulbs to air dry for 24-48 hours in a dark, cool, dry spot with good airflow.

Storing Bulbs

• Place dried bulbs in breathable containers like paper or mesh bags. Avoid plastic bags.

• Optional: Dust bulbs lightly with talcum powder to absorb any residual moisture.

• Label bags clearly for easy identification. Include variety name and year harvested.

• Keep bulbs in a cool (40-50°F), dark, dry location like a basement, cellar or unheated garage.

Maintaining Ideal Storage Conditions

• Check bulbs occasionally and remove any that show signs of mold or disease.

• Keep storage area cool but above freezing to avoid cold damage.

• Ensure bulbs remain dry. Add more talcum powder or use desiccant packs if needed.

• Provide ventilation in storage containers for air circulation.

• Avoid exposing bulbs to light which can induce early sprouting.

What Containers Work Best for Storing Freesia Bulbs?

The most suitable containers for storing freesia bulbs feature:

• Breathability – Paper, mesh and burlap bags allow airflow to prevent condensation and moisture buildup.

• Opacity – Opaque bags keep out light that can stimulate premature growth.

• Dryness – Absorbent materials like paper help maintain a dry environment.

• Portability – Lightweight bags are easy to move in and out of storage.

• Labeling – Use writable surfaces like paper and fabric bags for marking contents.

Ideal materials include:

• Plain brown paper bags

• Mesh onion/potato sacks

• Burlap bags

• Cardboard boxes lined with paper

• Breathable fabric bags

Avoid non-breathable plastic bags or containers that retain moisture and cause bulbs to rot.

What are the Best Storage Locations for Freesia Bulbs?

The top places to store freesia bulbs include:

• Unheated basements or cellars

• Garages, sheds, or outbuildings

• Refrigerators (short term only)

• Cool, dark closets or cabinets

• Under beds tucked in breathable bags

Key considerations for storage areas:

• Cool temperature between 40-50°F

• Avoid freezing and excess heat

• Dry with low humidity

• Dark or dim lighting

• Good air circulation

• Pest free

Monitor conditions periodically and move bulbs if needed.

Storing Other Flower Bulbs Like Freesias

Many popular flower bulbs can be stored using similar methods as freesias:

• Gladiolus: Dig up corms after foliage dies back. Dry and store in mesh bags at 40-50°F.

• Dahlias: Allow tubers to cure in cool, dry place for a week after digging. Store in paper bags at 45-55°F.

• Canna Lilies: Clean rhizomes and let dry for 1-2 days. Keep in peat or vermiculite at 50-60°F.

• Begonias: Allow tubers to cure for 2 weeks after digging. Store in paper bags at 45-55°F.

• Caladiums: Dry tubers for a few days after digging then store in peat or vermiculite at 50-60°F.

• Calla Lilies: Allow tubers to cure for 2 weeks. Store in peat or vermiculite at 45-55°F.

Always research specific storage needs for different bulb varieties.

Troubleshooting Issues With Stored Freesia Bulbs

If issues arise during storage, try these troubleshooting tips:

• Mold/Rotting: Discard affected bulbs immediately. Improve air circulation and reduce moisture/humidity in storage.

• Drying Out: Add moisture-absorbing powder or replace with fresh paper materials. Keep in breathable packaging.

• Sprouting: Move to cooler area immediately to halt growth. Check for light exposure.

• Pests: Discard infested bulbs. Clean storage area and use new containers. Consider preventatives like diatomaceous earth.

• Lack of Viability: Discard shriveled/damaged bulbs. Review harvest and storage methods to improve process.

Storing Freesia Bulbs for Continued Garden Beauty

With proper harvesting, drying, storage containers, and environmental conditions, freesia bulbs can be successfully preserved from season to season.

Overwintering bulbs saves money, spares replanting effort each year, and provides control over garden placements. Follow best practices for storing tender freesia bulbs and enjoy their wonderful blooms and fragrance annually for years to come.